I very much want to make it over there and am strongly considering coming over for VFW Tuscany with a visit to Berlin mixed in. Honestly it isn't looking real likely though as my own financial/job situation is up in the air and Europe seems so expensive...

I am also quite curious what is going to be happening with the EU and the Euro over the coming months...

Thanks for the reply! What are some of the things that you enjoyed in/about Berlin? It is currently the city that I'd most like to visit - though NZ is quite probably the country that ha most caught my interest!

NZ is beautiful! We have a spare room so if you ever find yourself these ways!

We were there for roller derby, so that was pretty cool, and the after party was on a boat on the river! that was cool. There just seems to be such a variety of awesome stuff to do, for example look at all the amazing architecture, the old wall murals (east berlin gallery i think?), some beautiful parks... also just hanging out and wandering in kreuzberg, prenzlauerberg (spelling?!)... some great eats and a good variety too, from burgers to awesome cheap (and not so cheap) buffet style...

We also went to this AMAZING jamaican/ragga "beach" bar along the riverfront. This place was AWESOME, had a half court, a half pipe, so much sand it actually felt like you were at the beach! And there were families there, musicians, people watching football (world cup was on), playing beach volleyball... and there was also a massive indoor venue there, which dead prez were playing at a week or so after we were there...

Also, we visited a close friend of an old flatmate - the house he lived in was kind of a city commune - he'd got together with a bunch of friends/associates, bought some land, then designed and built about 16 apartments with a lovely shared kitchen and large backyards. It was so cool! On that note, i've been told there's legislation in place to stop property speculation, and rents seem to be relatively low for a city of its size.

This has turned into quite a long ramble! should've just said I liked "the vibe" haha!

Thanks for the detailed reply - I don't find it to be too long & would love to read more! I also am appreciative of your generous offer to stay with you! I hope that I can take you up on that and you are of course very welcome to stay with me whenever you make it here to Vegan HQ!

Were y'all competing in a derby bout there? My oldest daughter is on a local junior team here and I am sure she would be excited to hear about other vegan derby folks!

The cultural and dining options in Berlin definitely seem exciting! I think I have heard about that beach bar and will likely have a look at it if/when I make it over. Your friends place sounds cool too!